Snow Storm, Photos & Memories

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Mid-Michigan is in the middle of a snow storm right now. So, I have put some extra wood in the fireplace to stay warm. Now, I am just working on some old negatives turning them into digital prints.  I am thankful that I really did not have anywhere important to go today.  The area could see up to 14 inches of snow by morning. I am just hoping that all those who have to get out for work are safe in their travels.

I honestly do not think these photos have been viewed since they were taking.  No one remembers the photos.  But I am enjoying the trip down memory lane. The first photo I am sharing with all of you today is of my grandfather and his first wife.  He was actual married twice before he met my grandmother.  At the same time, she had been married two times before.  They both agreed the third marriage was the best.  I love the old car in the photo, I wish I had that to play around with today.

I was surprised to find a photo of myself mixed in with his negatives.  Of course, I can’t really remember him taking the photo.  I can tell you the photo is over 40 years old.  The photo made me laugh.  My mom always tried to put us girls in dresses.  If you look closely at the photo, you will notice I am not wearing any shoes and I have band aids on my knee.  I loved being outdoors.  Still do.  And, yes I still walk around with no shoes on during the summer.  I think being without shoes connects you with nature.

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I hope everyone has a wonderful evening.  If you are out in this nasty snow storm, safe travels.

Hotel Federal?

Posted on by Rebecca C.

How did you spend your Sunday?  I spent most of mine working on some photos and catching up on some content writing for a couple of clients. At least I am a head of the deadlines. I think one of the reasons why I like working on this particular batch of photos is the area looks so warm.  I mean don’t get me wrong, we actually had a nice day here for winter in Michigan.

But the 28˚F is nothing like these recent photos from slides which feature palm trees, flamingos and sandy beaches.  I even had a dream last night I was standing in the ocean allowing the water wash over my sandals.  Perhaps I have been starring at these photos too much later.

Anyways, I thought I would share the one with the businesses in the background.  Perhaps someone will recognize the spot.  The hotel reads Home, Hotel Federal.  I could not find any verifiable information on the hotel.  The two stores that I could make out in the background are the Sweet & Blossum Florist and Coin Laundry.  Neither of these stores provide significant amount of detail for research.  But, I will keep digging to see what information I can find.

Happy Sunday, everyone!

Vintage Photo: The Kelso Funeral Home Girls Ensemble

Posted on by Rebecca C.

What can I say, I love vintage photographs.  The photos give me a glimpse at a different time, a time gone by.  I cannot honestly say if these times were better or worse.  I really think that is a matter of perspective. The photos will sometimes contain names which I am always researching.  But, most of the time the photographs just reveal lost memories.

I take these old photos, slides or negatives clean them up as best I can with the use of digital enhancement.  I try not to lose the grittiness of the old prints.  I think that is what makes them so unique and interesting.

I recently was fortunate to come across some photos from an estate sale.  I love that the person that owed this photo wrote a story on the back.  Old stories are why I love finding these treasures.  Most of the photos that I get are a mystery.  But this one had background information. This is what the story reads:

   The Kelso Funeral Home Girls Ensemble began when Dorothy and all except Allene Rayburn & Polly Anna O’Neil were in the 7th grade.  In those days most, but not all funerals in Wellington were held in churches in the town.  This group was formed by Mr.  & Mrs. Jimmie Kelso to provide music for those funerals held in his funeral home-mainly because those people could not afford to pay for someone sing.  I shall never forget the Kelson’s & Mrs. Elliot for all they did for us.  As time went on we provided music for many functions-even performed on radio in Vernon, Texas. This was in the depression and none of the families represented here could have afforded voice lessons for any of us or the money to travel as we did.  Mr.  & Mrs. Kelso & Mrs. Elliot did that out of their pockets.  All of us dearly loved them and shall never forget them. “1986”—Dear Cora Clark Holton and Polly Anna O’Neil have passed away. 

Front row:  Polly Anna O’Neil (pianist), Dorothy Holcomb, Cora Clark, Allene Rayburn (Pianist after Polly Anna O’Neil

Back Row:  Betty Lou Blanton (?), Faye Moore, Mrs. Elliot (Director), Frances Nunnelly, & Virginia Blideao.